THREAD SIX, a Skirt can hardly believe it.

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1166753-welcome-to-grayditch/

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1168688-welcome-to-grayditch-2/

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1171370-welcome-to-grayditch-thread-three/

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1173590-welcome-to-grayditch-thread-four/

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1175996-welcome-to-grayditch-thread-five/

Remember http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1168631-welcome-to-grayditch-ooc/page__view__findpost__p__17212081 -- Don't forget to have fun.

http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1179164-welcome-to-grayditch-ooc// Still accepting new members

FRIEDA ~~ Pawnee's house ~~ Early morning

“You and me?” Pawnee scratched his head, and then nodded, “. . .okay. I'd like that. I can’t believe you’re willing to forgive me. I wouldn’t have forgiven me. The least I can do is help you with your past . I’ll head out with you in two days – how’s that? Zardoz is making me a new arm. Hopefully I'll be wearing it by then.”

Frieda straightened, her heart soaring. "You mean a lot to me, and...old habits die hard."

You're calling outright philandering a "habit", now?

She grinned. "It'll be fun! Though...are you sure it's a good idea to trust Zardoz like that...?" She shrugged. "I suppose I can tweak any of the electrical parts for you, if it doesn't work smoothly."

“There’s one thing,” Pawnee looked away suddenly, “I’ll travel with you, but can we go as. . .as friends? Like I said, I don’t want to hurt you again. I think it would be healthy for both of us if we took a little break. I care about you so much Frieda, but its too emotional for me right now. I can’t handle it - and that's not fair to you. I hope we wind up back together, but for now, if you’re willing, too, I’d - I’d like to be your friend. . I hope we can be friends. Close friends."

...wait, what? The grin fell off Frieda's face. Is...is there something he's not telling me, about Brandy? Or...someone else? "Friends?" she squeaked in echo. After everything, just...just friends? "Why?" she asked. "I mean, I don't understand, I thought this is what you wanted -- I thought us is what you wanted."

"I don't wanna lose you," is what he said...he chased me down the street that day...he promised to be different, to change just for me...

Now he doesn't want me, just like that? He practically begged me to come back, and now I'm here, and...

"It just doesn't make sense," Frieda sighed. Her heart had sunk and she realized she was about to cry. Don't you cry, don't you [censored] dare. "Is...is that your thing, now? You sleep with your 'girl' friends, but you don't actually want to commit to just one?" Anger ebbed up inside of her and she shivered. "Brandy was 'just a friend', too...do you like her better, now?" Her tone became acidic as she was unable to keep her anger from her voice.

"I deserve the truth, Pawnee -- or Karl or Ben or Duke or whatever you're gonna call yourself, now -- the real truth. I took a bullet for you!"




CELESTE BROWN ~~ Diner ~~ Morning

"I'm glad I'm not dead too darlin'." Joe tried to stand to leave the diner and gave her a weak smile, but his legs gave out on him and he almost fell. Celeste cried out, but Harold was quick and grabbed Joe before he could fall. Joe gasped a little. "Thank you Harold, could you help me along to the doctor's house now. Sorry Celeste, I need to get this looked at." He waved his hand towards his burns again. "We'll talk later ok?"

Celeste nodded. "Okay, Joe." She wiped the remains of the tears out of her eyes. "I'm...I'm just really glad you're okay. Really glad."

Joe turned and spoke to Jimmy. Celeste's attention was caught by a very tall man with crazy blonde hair, and blue eyes. He appeared to be fairly young. "You people alright?" he asked.

"Well, stranger," Celeste offered a sarcastic smile, "welcome to Grayditch! You missed the Raiders by about twenty-four hours...most of us seem to be accounted for, if in poor shape. I'm Celeste Brown, and this is my diner. Make yourself comfortable. Are you just passin' through? Like Joe said -- it's not like this every day." She passed him a cup of coffee and began to assemble another pot.

Brandy and Bob came in. "Hello," Bob said in greeting.

"Hi, Bob," Celeste replied. "Good morning, Brandy. How's your shoulder today?" She motioned for Brandy to sit in front of her. "Joe finally came in, he's...he's alive, a little worse for wear, though."

"You came back with Frieda," Celeste continued. "You have to tell me, even if it's bad news. Did...did Pawnee get killed? I know there was something about that bounty hunter, but I just have to know." Celeste wasn't sure if her heart could break any more, after the death of Duncan, the truth about Rusty, and Joe's terrible injuries.

Ryler North—Emporium de Winters—Morning

Ryler sat at his desk, busy with documents, the low lamplight providing light. Someone knocked at the door, and before Ryler could answer, in walked a large brute with Joe cradled in his arms. Surprised to see burns and bruises painted on Joe’s torso, Ryler immediately stood up, walked over to Harold at a brisk pace.

Examining his burns, Ryler was glad to see that it was first degree burns, and not second or third. His blistered skin covered some parts of this torso.

Ryler walked over the cupboard, opened it then pulled out a clean, white rug, then laid it on the ground. “Carry him by the bathtub and run his burns under cool water until his body temperature is back to normal.” Ryler instructed to Harold.

While Harold ran the water, Ryler prepared and searched for clean non-stick material to apply to his burns. Harold soon returned, and then Ryler gestured for him to lay Joe on the rug.

He wrapped the cloth to Joe’s burns, and held it in place with yet another cloth.

“So, you mind telling me what had happened?” Ryler crowed.


***


Finished with Joe, Ryler made himself a coffee.

In walked James, with a woman in his arms, covered in old and healed scars. Some were new and fresh, however.

“Ryler this is my sister Jessica , she need medical attention” James said as put Jessica down on an empty table, Ryler walked over and began examining Jessica,“ the Talon company Drugged her or something she’s been out cold of at least Five hours.” James huffed.

The woman was covered in bruises; her body was practically shades of purple and black. Ryler raised an eyebrow, “Talon Company? Drugged?”

Ryler took out a sterile cloth and cleaned her wounds. He wrapped ice in a cloth, placing it on her bruises. What in the world is happening to this town? He wondered.

"Hey, James, I need help. . .with thie new shop. Care to lend a hand?"

OOCL Sorry if post is a little weak. Despite it being the holidays, I am busy still.

Brandy - Celeste's Diner - Morning


"Good morning, Brandy. How's your shoulder today?" Celeste motioned for Brandy to sit in front of her. "Joe finally came in, he's...he's alive, a little worse for wear, though."


"Good morning Celeste." Brandy chirped back, "Oh good, I'm glad he's alive, I know how worried you were about him. Is he going to be alright? How are you feeling? My shoulder....its still real sore and tight. I can feel the staples pull when I move it too much. That's why Ryler gave me a sling, so hopefully I don't over do it."


"You came back with Frieda," Celeste continued. "You have to tell me, even if it's bad news. Did...did Pawnee get killed? I know there was something about that bounty hunter, but I just have to know."


"He's very much alive, trust me." Brandy replied, "Scythe was such a savage, he cut his arm off, but at least he's alive and that's all that matters." She finished with a mixture of sadness and shame.


Brandy leaned forward, "let me tell you something Celeste" Celeste leaned in and Brandy whispered in her ear, "I feel like a horrible person. I slept with him last night, I stabbed Frieda in the back after all she did for me, I'm a horrible person." She spoke with guilt, "But, afterwards, I told Pawnee how special he made me feel and he just said, 'they all say that' then he...he left."

Brandy took off her glasses and rubbed her eyes, attempting to stifle her tears, "So he doesn't even care, and I hurt Frieda, I still have to tell her. She was my friend and I was selfish, now its going to cost me my friendship with her I'm sure."


Brandy leaned back a little bit and looked towards Duncan, she covered her mouth.


"This is almost too much to take, I need to step out for a second, save my seat I'll be right back."

Brandy walked around the corner of the diner and went through her satchel, pulling out her last inhaler of Jet. Taking a quick huff off it, feeling a little relieved she went back into the diner and sat back down on the stool.


"Just needed a breath of fresh air." She smiled at Celeste.




J.T. Taylor - Grayditch Park/ Duncans tent


After using every piece of rope or cable he could find, J.T tied up the brahmin as best he could.

They need something to corral these guys up, or they'll wind up Guai meat or something.

He then fetched all the pales he could find and began milking them. The pales filled up quickly, and he had no choice but to finish by letting the milk fall to the ground. Searching around the makeshift ranch, he found some feed and fed them.

Been a long, long time since I've done this. He thought with a smile, it brought back memories of growing up down south. He picked up two pales and walked back to the diner. On his way back he saw the black haired woman, Sue running into the clinic with a panicked look on her face.

As he walked by Zardoz's wagon he noticed a protectron standing in front of the wagon. It was asking about a rucksack. J.T. Just smiled and continued inside the diner, placing the buckets on the counter.

"Hey Celeste, fresh delivery, where would you like me to put these?" He turned to Brandy, "well good morning, how's the shoulder? I don't believe I introduced myself yesterday. My names J.T. Glad to see you out n about."

He followed Celeste's instructions for taking care of the milk.

"There ya go, I have two more buckets full I'll go grab. If you see or know where there are more buckets, I'm sure them brahmin would be happy to fill them for ya." He gave a wink as he went to get the rest of the milk.

James Wilson - Ryler house/clinic – late morning

Ryler raised an eyebrow, “Talon Company? Drugged?” he said

“It’s a long story but I was kinapped last night and was taken to fort Bannister, found her out cold in a prison cell and carried her all the way back here."

Ryler took out a sterile cloth and cleaned her wounds. He wrapped ice in a cloth, placing it on her bruises after he was finsihed he turned and faced james.

"Hey, James, I need help. . .with the new shop. Care to lend a hand?"

“ Sure I’ll help you Ryler , I have this book on runing a bussiness but first I need to find Sue and change my clothes… James said looking down at his bloody clothes…

As if on clue Sue slammed the Ryler’s door open and rushed over to Jessica, holding her Hand, Sue began to cry, turning around to James she made several hand signals (Thank you James I though I lost her forever)

“Ryler, Jessica is Sue’s girlfriend, she been missing for three years, we thou… We though she was dead…” James said almost crying himself… as he sat down on Ryler's couch

After watching Jessica for few minutes James got up of the couch and said “ Sue I’m going to get some food I’ll be back in bit, take good care of her Ryler…”

Sue nodded whilst James walked outside

David O'Riley -- Diner -- Morning

"Welcome to Grayditch! You missed the Raiders by about twenty-four hours...most of us seem to be accounted for, if in poor shape. I'm Celeste Brown, and this is my diner. Make yourself comfortable. Are you just passin' through? Like Joe said -- it's not like this every day."

David took the cup off her and raised it in appreciation. He stared down at the foam as he swirled the liquid inside before finally taking a sip. It was good, brewing good coffee was a skill you had or didn't. His father's style of making coffee was poor, quick, fast and strong. The Ranger Special he called it, the taste was awful but the pick me up was like taking Turbo.

"Sorry to hear," He said looking back at the corpse. "Well, I thought I'd stop by to see if I could grab something to eat. But... I'm also looking for some work."

--Morning--
--Greyditch--
--Zardoz--

"Hello my good chum." The protectron rasped to Zardoz. "I am here to ask if I can purchase a bag or rucksack from you. I can pay you immediately if you will take shotgun shells or the glass in my faceplate in trade."

“Of course,” Zardoz smiled. He dug though his wagon and produced a school bag, “In all my travels I’ve never had a mechanical customer before. Quite a curiosity. Are you sure that’s all wish to purchase? More interestingly - are you capable of 'wishing' for things at all? I sell one of the widest and finest collections of wasteland scavenge. Take a look. I bet you can find that one missing something you’ve been yearning for.”

Nikita emerged from the wagon, painted up in stage makeup. She began to shout, trying to gather another crowd.

“Wastelanders – this is your last chance to buy from Zardoz’s caravan! Come one! Come all! If you miss this, you’ll never see it again! We have everything you desire and you'll find it nowhere else!”

--Morning--
--Pawnee’s House--
--Pawnee--

Pawnee watched as Frieda’s smile turned into a grimace. It made him feel sick to his stomach. She looked more hurt than he’d ever seen her before.

Buck began to whine.

“Why?" Frieda stammered. "I mean, I don't understand, I thought this is what you wanted -- I thought us is what you wanted."

“I do,” Pawnee croaked, “just. . .just not like this. Not now. Not while everything’s so. . .confused.”

"It just doesn't make sense. Is this your thing, now? You sleep with your 'girl' friends, but you don't actually want to commit to just one? Brandy was 'just a friend', too. . .Do you like her better, now?"

“No. I – I kinda told her the same thing. . .but I told you last night – I didn’t mean to sleep with her. I-“

"I deserve the truth, Pawnee,” Frieda’s hurt tone had been replaced with a seething angy hiss, “or Karl or Ben or Duke or whatever you're gonna call yourself, now -- the real truth. I took a bullet for you!"

“I didn’t ask you to take a bullet for me,” Pawnee shot back, “I told you to stay away – how many times? If you want the truth here it is. For the past two days I’ve been hunted down and beaten to pulp, had my arm cut off with a rusty blade, and been drugged into an absolute stupor. And on top of all of that. . . and on top of all of that. . .I got note from someone that said Bittercup's been enslaved by those [censored] at Tenpenny tower. My head is swimming and being pulled in ten different directions. It was really hard for me to admit I cheated on you, but I came clean. I’m just trying to be honest. I don’t want to be close to anyone right now because I know I’ll wind up hurting them. I need a little time and space to sort my feelings out.”

FRIEDA ~~ Pawnee's house ~~ Mid-morning

“I didn’t ask you to take a bullet for me,” Pawnee shot back, “I told you to stay away – how many times? If you want the truth here it is."

Frieda's heart jumped into her throat. She was both anxious and apprehensive of what would come next. She didn't think she was really going to be able to push him far enough to confess everything, and yet...

"For the past two days I’ve been hunted down and beaten to pulp, had my arm cut off with a rusty blade, and been drugged into an absolute stupor. And on top of all of that. . . and on top of all of that. . .I got note from someone that said Bittercup's been enslaved by those [censored] at Tenpenny tower."

No. [censored]. Way.

"My head is swimming and being pulled in ten different directions. It was really hard for me to admit I cheated on you, but I came clean. I’m just trying to be honest. I don’t want to be close to anyone right now because I know I’ll wind up hurting them. I need a little time and space to sort my feelings out.”

"What's there to sort out, Pawnee?" Frieda spat, spreading her hands, her body trembling with anger. "She left you. She couldn't care if you lived or died! You told me yourself that she's gone, and you...you were ready to move on." She shook her head, a movement that more resembled an exaggerated twitch. "Look -- please -- don't do this to yourself. I don't know how or why you got that information but try...try to forget it."

Frieda took a step forward and gently put her hands on his waist, before she could catch herself doing it. "It might not even be true. It could be another bounty hunter, trying to draw you out, like Scythe did, right? Your brother probably advertised the job as much as he could, because he wanted you back, or dead, so badly." She gave him a small smile. "You've had a rough week, I understand that. It hasn't exactly been easy for me, either...but I...I really care about you, I want to stay together. We can just run away, you can start your new life with your new name, we'll just figure things out as we go."

Frieda leaned her forehead against his and closed her eyes. She let her heart take over, her pulse quickening, her greater reasoning completely ignored. "I'm not trying to smother you, I just care, really care, and...I'll be honest. Now it's me who doesn't want to lose you." She took another breath. "I won't just be your friend, Pawnee, not if you decide you want to investigate this Bittercup thing. I think it's fair to ask you to choose her or me, after everything..."





CELESTE BROWN ~~ Diner ~~ Mid-morning

"He's very much alive, trust me." Brandy replied, "Scythe was such a savage, he cut his arm off, but at least he's alive and that's all that matters."

Celeste gasped dramatically. "The bounty hunter cut his arm off?! Oh my God!"

Poor Pawnee! What could he have ever done to deserve a bounty, and for his arm to get cut off?! I suppose that's better than being killed, his body dragged back to...where ever...I better make sure to see him later.

Brandy leaned forward, "let me tell you something Celeste." Celeste leaned in and Brandy whispered in her ear, "I feel like a horrible person. I slept with him last night, I stabbed Frieda in the back after all she did for me, I'm a horrible person. But, afterwards, I told Pawnee how special he made me feel and he just said, 'they all say that' then he...he left." Brandy took off her glasses and rubbed her eyes before continuing, "So he doesn't even care, and I hurt Frieda, I still have to tell her. She was my friend and I was selfish, now it's going to cost me my friendship with her I'm sure."

"Wow," Celeste mumbled. She could hardly believe what Brandy just told her. She couldn't help but feel a little satisfied that Brandy had just gone for it and seduced Pawnee -- the idea of him being with Frieda had always irked her -- but it was also unsettling that Pawnee would have cheated, outright cheated, like that. He was friendly and a bit of a flirt, but Celeste had thought that was the extent of it. She kept her voice down so that no one around would really be able to listen in all that easily. "That's...I mean, good for you for showing him your feelings, but it sounds a bit like he used you. I didn't think he was really like that. Awwww," she cooed, reaching forward and rubbing Brandy's arms, "poor thing. I'm so sorry. It's hard to be rejected, when you put yourself out there like that and then you find out he's not really interested. Especially after you've been, you know, intimate."

Brandy leaned back a little bit and looked towards Duncan, she covered her mouth. "This is almost too much to take, I need to step out for a second, save my seat I'll be right back."

"Okay, hon. I'll put some more coffee on." She watched Brandy leave and J.T. walk in carrying two buckets of milk.

"Hey Celeste, fresh delivery, where would you like me to put these?" He turned to Brandy who had come back in, "well good morning, how's the shoulder? I don't believe I introduced myself yesterday. My names J.T. Glad to see you out n about."

"Just needed a breath of fresh air." She smiled at Celeste.

"Just pop that milk right into the fridge for now, I have some clean bottles but they're in the kitchen of my house," Celeste directed J.T. He nodded and obliged.

"There ya go, I have two more buckets full I'll go grab. If you see or know where there are more buckets, I'm sure them brahmin would be happy to fill them for ya." He gave a wink as he went to get the rest of the milk.

"Hmmm," Celeste mused out loud. "I should probably just pour the milk from these buckets into bottles, for now. If only I had the bottles..." She decided to simply use the milk to reconstitute the powdered eggs and put something together to serve for breakfast at the diner.

I wonder what kind of drama there'll be if Frieda finds out about Pawnee and Brandy. She nearly took Pawnee's head off, if I recall, because he simply gave Brandy the time of day. Frieda doesn't really look more dangerous than a bounty hunter, but who knows. She's just so weird. Who can say anything definite about her? Celeste glanced out the diner window and saw the robot Brandy and Frieda had brought back, standing at the purple wagon, and talking to the man in the flamboyant suit. If only I had time to stop by there, today. Too bad about Rusty...

Celeste turned to ask Bob and Brandy if they'd be interested in some breakfast, but they were already gone. Sue was drinking her coffee and listening to the radio, and Joe, Jimmy, and Harold were long gone. She smiled broadly at the stranger, feeling some of her old charisma coming back.

"Sorry to hear," the stranger said looking back at the corpse. "Well, I thought I'd stop by to see if I could grab something to eat. But... I'm also looking for some work."

"What's your name, friend?" Celeste asked with a warm smile. "I can assure you there was plenty of work before the Raiders came in and tossed a grenade into my diner -- so there is plenty that can be done. Do you have a trade? We can use all kinds."

J.T. Taylor - Celeste's Diner - morning


"Just pop that milk right into the fridge for now, I have some clean bottles but they're in the kitchen of my house," Celeste directed J.T. He nodded and obliged.

"No problem, I'll grab them for ya real quick." He smiled back at Celeste.

That Joe is one lucky man. Even after the ordeal here, she's still perky and upbeat. What a sweet woman.

J.T entered Celeste's house and made his way to the kitchen. The clean bottles were on the counter, he scooped them up in his arms and strode back to the diner. Walking behind the counter, he sat them on the counter and helped to fill them up.

"Well, that's about it, I'll run and fetch the other two buckets now." He stated.

The brahmin were much more content having been milked, they were just milling about peacefully were J.T had tied them up. He picked the buckets up and hurried back to the diner, he put the buckets in the fridge.

"Celeste, I'm gonna see if ol'Zardoz has any bottles, or containers good for this milk." He grinned, "your gonna need a few with as much milk as I had to waste."

Outside the diner, "Zardoz, good morning. Say, you wouldn't happen to have any milk bottles would ya?" J.T folded his arms and leaned against the wagon.

OOC: Short posts are short.

David O'Riley -- Diner -- Morning

"What's your name, friend?" She asked, shooting him a smile. "David, David O'Riley." Repling with a small grin of his own. "I can assure you there was plenty of work before the Raiders came in and tossed a grenade into my diner -- so there is plenty that can be done. Do you have a trade? We can use all kinds."

"My trade?" David let out a soft chuckle before downing the rest of the coffee. "Well, If you need something killed at over 800 meters then I'm your man. I can teach folk how to shoot a weapon properly, I can scout, I can hunt, I can track down someone for you, but I'm no bounty hunter." He stopped and gave the diner a quick look around. "Though, they wouldn't be much help to your Diner I'm afraid, but to your little town..."

David set the empty cup back down on the counter, pushing it towards Celeste. "Thank you."

Brandy - Celeste's Diner - morning



"Wow" Celeste mumbled, "That's...I mean, good for you for showing him your feelings, but it sounds a bit like he used you. I didn't think he was really like that. Awwww," she cooed, reaching forward and rubbing Brandy's arms, "poor thing. I'm so sorry. It's hard to be rejected, when you put yourself out there like that and then you find out he's not really interested. Especially after you've been, you know, intimate."


Brandy sighed, "yeah I know, I've only ever done something like this once before, same result. It won't happen again."


After she came back inside, the guitar guy was there carrying some milk.

"Well good morning, how's the shoulder? I don't believe I introduced myself yesterday. My names J.T. Glad to see you out n about."

"I'm Brandy, its ok, pretty sore though." Brandy replied, as she got back up, "sorry, have to go build a coffin for Duncan, maybe I'll see you later."


Brandy and Bob walked out of the diner, she stopped in front of Zardoz's wagon.

"Excuse me, Mr. Zardoz?" She waited until he faced her, "you never mentioned that stuff was temporary, and now I'm in quite a predicament. I...I just wish you would have said something about that before I bought it."

Brandy glanced towards Nikita offering her a small smile, "Good morning" Brandy looked at Bob, "Go ahead Bob, I'll catch up with you."

Satisfied Bob was far enough away, turning back to Nikita, "would you sell three Jets for fifty three caps, its all I have." She nervously smiled.

Brandy looked around, "Good morning Mirvin, where were you last night? I see you got your new sack."

--Morning--
--Greyditch--
--Zardoz/Nikita--

Zardoz completed the transaction with the robot and attempted to usher it over towards more of his inventory. He then heard J.T. speak up behind him.

"Zardoz, good morning. Say, you wouldn't happen to have any milk bottles would ya?" J.T casually folded his arms.

“Milk bottles?” Zardoz furrowed his brow, “I. . .don’t. I might have an empty nuka-cola bottle or two, but milk bottles are so common and worthless, I don’t bother to keep them in stock.”

Before J.T. responded, a girl walked straight up to Zardoz with a concerned frown.

"Excuse me, Mr. Zardoz?"

“Yes?”

"You never mentioned that stuff was temporary, and now I'm in quite a predicament. I...I just wish you would have said something about that before I bought it."

“Well of course my dear. No drug’s effects are permanent – the body eventually flushes it out of one’s system. Just like jet or alcohol. A love potion merely opens the door to romance,” Zardoz winked, “it’s up to you to make that romance a lasting one.”

The girl walked away, over to Nikita.

Zardoz turned back towards J.T, “so besides a few empty bottles, is there anything else you’d like? I believe I have a case for a guitar. A very nice one."

The girl walked up to Nikita, "Good morning,” she waved goodbye to a man that had been walking with her and only spoke when he was out of earshot, “would you sell three Jets for fifty three caps, it’s all I have."

“Sure,” Nikita chirped. She darted back towards the wagon and retrieved them, holding her hand out, “it would normally be sixty, but I’m glad you liked my reading. You get a discount.”

--Morning--
--Pawnee’s House--
--Pawnee--

"What's there to sort out, Pawnee?" Frieda spat, spreading her hands, her body trembling with anger. "She left you. She couldn't care if you lived or died! You told me yourself that she's gone, and you...you were ready to move on."

“She – she still cared about me,” Pawnee felt deeply hurt by the comment, “I know she still does. She knew I could handle myself. She treated me like a man - not a child."

“Look,” Frieda barked, “please, don't do this to yourself. I don't know how or why you got that information but try...try to forget it."

Forget it?!?!

Frieda took a step forward and gently put her hands on his waist.

Pawnee stared at her, half in shock.

"It might not even be true. It could be another bounty hunter, trying to draw you out, like Scythe did, right? Your brother probably advertised the job as much as he could, because he wanted you back, or dead, so badly." Frieda gave him a small smile. "You've had a rough week, I understand that. It hasn't exactly been easy for me, either...but I...I really care about you, I want to stay together. We can just run away, you can start your new life with your new name, we'll just figure things out as we go."

“Couldn’t I just look into this first?" Pawnee croaked, exasperated, “I’m going to help you look into your past. Why can’t you help me settle mine?”

Frieda leaned her forehead against his and closed her eyes. "I'm not trying to smother you, I just care, really care, and...I'll be honest. Now it's me who doesn't want to lose you. I won't just be your friend, Pawnee, not if you decide you want to investigate this Bittercup thing. I think it's fair to ask you to choose her or me - after everything."

“I. . .I,” Pawnee pulled away from Frieda, “I need time. Let me think. Please. I’ll reach a decision by tomorrow.”

Mirvin. Beside Zardoz's wagon. Morning.

“In all my travels I’ve never had a mechanical customer before. Quite a curiosity. Are you sure that’s all wish to purchase?" The trader named Mr Zardoz asked Mirvin, handing over the rucksack. "More interestingly - are you capable of 'wishing' for things at all? I sell one of the widest and finest collections of wasteland scavenge. Take a look. I bet you can find that one missing something you’ve been yearning for.”

"I am not capable of yearning for things, my good chum. There is however one thing I would purchase from you if you are able to sell me it....."

The protectron trailed off as a man with long dirty blonde hair and scruffy beard interrupted the transaction, asking the trader if he had milk bottles for sale. To Mirvin this harly seemed like something that would necessitate interrupting a conversation, however he knew that humans oftten acted like this, putting thier wishes before those of others. Since Mirvin was incapable of "wishing" for anything, he surmised that the man was probably justified in his rudeness.

“Milk bottles?” Mr Zardoz replied, furrowing his brow, “I. . .don’t. I might have an empty nuka-cola bottle or two, but milk bottles are so common and worthless, I don’t bother to keep them in stock.”

The long haired man opened his mouth to talk, but he was himself interrupted by Miss Brandy. Miss Brandy looked quite concerned as she approached the trader and began speaking with him. Mirvin approached the blond man, extending his metal claw, offering a handshake.

"Excuse me my good chum, I can be of some help here. I was recently reactivated in an abandoned supermarket not too far from here. There were a lot of bottles and other suitable containers for liquid scattered around. If it would be acceptable I will direct you there at your convenience. My name is Mirvin."

As he said this, Miss Brandy turned to face the robot. "Good morning Mirvin, where were you last night? I see you got your new sack."

"I did Miss Brandy, I find the rucksack most acceptable for my requirements. I have not yet completed my transaction with Mr Zardoz however, I was interrupted by my new friend here." Miss Brandy appeared distracted however and crossed to a young woman with purple hair.

While Mirvin had been conversing with Miss Brandy, the trader and the blond man had resumed their transaction. Mirvin patiently waited for another chance to talk with Mr Zardoz.

OOC - This takes place in the early morning, before Brandy and Bob left for the Red House and returned with James and Jessica about 10:30am.

Bob Dobbs

Outside Celeste’s Diner – Morning

Bob held the door open for Brandy, as she walked out of the Diner Bob shut it behind her and they walked towards her house. Zardoz’s wagon was across the street, he had just opened for business. As they approached, they could see he was talking to Mirvin while J.T stood by waiting his turn.

Brandy walked up to Zardoz and stopped. "Excuse me, Mr. Zardoz?", she said, waiting until she had his attention before continuing. "You never mentioned that stuff was temporary, and now I'm in quite a predicament. I...I just wish you would have said something about that before I bought it."

“Well of course my dear. No drug’s effects are permanent – the body eventually flushes it out of one’s system. Just like jet or alcohol. A love potion merely opens the door to romance,” Zardoz replied then winked at Brandy, “It’s up to you to make that romance a lasting one.”

Brandy then glanced towards Nikita and offered her a small smile, "Good morning" Brandy then looked at Bob. "Go ahead Bob, I'll catch up with you."

“OK”, replied Bob. “I’ll get started unloading the Brahmin. Where do you want me to put my stuff?”. After Brandy told him where he could put his baggage, Bob then began to walk again towards her house. As Bob walked, he recalled what Celeste had been saying to Brandy when he sat next to her at the counter.

"That's...I mean, good for you for showing him your feelings, but it sounds a bit like he used you. I didn't think he was really like that.” Celeste said to Brandy in a low voice, then cooed while rubbing her arms. “Awwww, poor thing. I'm so sorry. It's hard to be rejected, when you put yourself out there like that and then you find out he's not really interested. Especially after you've been, you know, intimate."

She’s got a crush on Pawnee…but he’s apparently seeing Frieda. Sounds like she threw herself at him and got him into bed but things didn’t go her way. But what would Zardoz have to do with it? Those potions of his are at best placebos….at worst they’ll make you sick. But actually work? Yeah, right. Of course, Brandy’s not that worldly so she wouldn’t know that.

Reaching Celeste’s house, He untied his Brahmin and moved it next door and tied it up in front of Brandy’s house. He then began to remove boxes and packs and take them inside, leaving them in the room Brandy had described to him.

Nice of her to offer, this will do until I can get a place of my own.

Walking back into Brandy’s living room, he noticed the R-91 Assault Rifle sitting on her coffee table. Bob picked it up and examined it…the rifle didn’t seem to have been adequately cared for in some time. Bob opened the bolt and checked the chamber, it was unloaded. He found he could cycle the bolt and operate the safety, when he pulled the trigger it went “click”.

I’ll have to ask her if she’s actually fired it. Looks like it probably works…those things are incredibly tough. Needs to be cleaned bad, though.

Bob then looked around for the kitchen.

I’m thirsty. I wonder if she’s got the water working in here.

Bob walked into the kitchen and checked the faucet. She had water. Bob let it run for a bit to clear out any crap in the pipes and get cold, and looked for a glass. Finding one, Bob filled the glass then leaned against the counter and drank it.

Probably should have run the Geiger counter over it first. Heh….the Hand Comp isn’t reacting, so I should be alright.

Looking around boredly, he saw a familiar looking pink bottle on the floor, by Brandy’s small kitchen table. He picked it up and looked at it.

Looks like one of Zardoz’s potion bottles. What was in the pink one…”Love Potion Number Nine”? What a crock.

Scoffing at the effectiveness of Zardoz’s potions, Bob sniffed the open bottle. No sooner did he do that, several things happened he didn’t expect. First, his head began to swim a bit. Bob also noticed that he was starting to become physically aroused…for no reason.

What the…what is happening to me? I’m acting like there’s a naked woman parading in front of me. Wait..oh, [censored]! Ant-Queen Pheromones, it has to be.

Bob moved the bottle away from his nose and dropped it in a garbage can then stuck the fingers of the hand he had touched it with under the running tap for a while then wiped them dry on his pants. After about a minute, the strange feeling faded away.

That was close, thank God Brandy wasn’t here. You cannot play with this stuff…what was she thinking? No, she couldn’t have known better…what was Zardoz thinking to sell this stuff without warning her how powerful it was? You use it to put some spice back in a existing relationship or maybe to give a nudge to a potential lover still on the fence, but if you use it on someone who isn’t interested or has already chosen another…oh, dear.

He then heard the door open and Brandy walk in. Bob finished his glass of water, then shut off the tap and put the glass on the counter and walked into the living room. Bob walked to the door and gently pushed it closed. He then walked back to Brandy.

“Brandy”, said Bob gently. “Can I ask you something?”

“I was getting a glass of water and found a bottle lying on the floor, it was one of Zardoz’s ‘love potions’. Now, I heard what you said to Zardoz before I left…I’d like to know. Did you give it to Pawnee?” Bob continued. “ From the effect it had on me when I just sniffed it, Zardoz put Ant-Queen pheromones in it. They don’t make people fall in love, they just make people lust after someone who is wearing them, or the first person they see. It doesn’t change how they really feel about that person. I don’t know much about this Pawnee boy, but I understand he’s seeing Frieda. Using a potion like this to attract a man who is seeing someone else will only lead to heartbreak for everyone involved. I'm only asking you this because I'm concerned about you, I don't want to see you get hurt."

Brandy - Her house - morning





“Sure,” Nikita chirped. She darted back towards the wagon and retrieved them, holding her hand out, “it would normally be sixty, but I’m glad you liked my reading. You get a discount.”


"Thanks, your reading was really good, but that love potion wasn't what I expected to be." Brandy sighed as she dropped the three inhalers into her satchel.


Walking up to her house, she noticed Bob had already unpacked his brahmin. That was fast, wonder he will think of Mirvin living with me? Brandy walked inside and was about to go up to her room.



“Brandy”, said Bob gently. “Can I ask you something?”


She furrowed her brow wondering what he wanted to ask, he sounded worried, "Um....sure, what did you need?"


“I was getting a glass of water and found a bottle lying on the floor, it was one of Zardoz’s ‘love potions’. Now, I heard what you said to Zardoz before I left…I’d like to know. Did you give it to Pawnee?” Bob continued. “ From the effect it had on me when I just sniffed it, Zardoz put Ant-Queen pheromones in it. They don’t make people fall in love, they just make people lust after someone who is wearing them, or the first person they see. It doesn't’t change how they really feel about that person. I don’t know much about this Pawnee boy, but I understand he’s seeing Frieda. Using a potion like this to attract a man who is seeing someone else will only lead to heartbreak for everyone involved. I'm only asking you this because I'm concerned about you, I don't want to see you get hurt."


"WA.....WHAT?" she was completely surprised.


What the hell? Why does it matter? I can't believe this, be nice try not to.....


"Bob" her voice cracked as she began to get upset, "A little late for that, I've already hurt Frieda, I'm not sure if Pawnee told her not, but she will be very hurt. And me? well I'm starting to get used to it." Brandy took a deep breath, the back of near neck felt hot, "Bob, you're a really nice guy, and observe alot too. But, I'm just not ready to talk about Pawnee yet OK? I need to go upstairs for a minute"


Brandy felt light headed as she walked to the stairs, she couldn't believe what was happening, she wasn't ready for it at all. Halfway up the stairs she reached into her satchel and picked out an inhaler, she huffed the entire thing before reaching the top of the stairs. Shutting the door to her bedroom, she sat on the floor not wanting to face anyone or anything right at that moment. Laying her head down on her clothes, she began to cry, both furious and heart broken.




J.T. Taylor - Zardoz's wagon - morning




“Milk bottles?” Zardoz furrowed his brow, “I. . .don’t. I might have an empty nuka-cola bottle or two, but milk bottles are so common and worthless, I don’t bother to keep them in stock.”


J.T. was about to speak when Brandy walked up and just started talking to Zardoz. She was talking about a potion not being permanent, Zardoz explained it to her then turned back to J.T.


“so besides a few empty bottles, is there anything else you’d like? I believe I have a case for a guitar. A very nice one."


J.T pressed his tongue to his cheek, "Hmm....I'll checkout that guitar case here in a bit, I need to find something other than a bucket to put some fresh milk in."


"Excuse me my good chum, I can be of some help here. I was recently reactivated in an abandoned supermarket not too far from here. There were a lot of bottles and other suitable containers for liquid scattered around. If it would be acceptable I will direct you there at your convenience. My name is Mirvin."


J.T. just smiled, "Well Mirvin, mah....."


Brandy interupted, "Good morning Mirvin, where were you last night? I see you got your new sack."


"I did Miss Brandy, I find the rucksack most acceptable for my requirements. I have not yet completed my transaction with Mr Zardoz however, I was interrupted by my new friend here." Mirvin replied, Brandy then went to speak with Nikita.


J.T chuckled, "Lets try this again, Mirvin, I'm J.T. Taylor, nice to meet ya." he extended his hand, " I do apologize for interupting you and Zardoz's conversation. Are you talking about the SuperDuper Mart? I saw it when I was headin' to town, if not. Could you point me in the right direction?"

Ryler North--Emporium--late morning

“Sure I’ll help you Ryler , I have this book on runing a bussiness but first I need to find Sue and change my clothes" James emphasised the fact by looking down at his bloody garments

Suddenly, a sobbing Sue kocked to door open, rusing over to Jess, holding her hand tightly.

“Ryler, Jessica is Sue’s girlfriend, she been missing for three years, we thou… We though she was dead…” James looked as of her were to cry, but fought back to tears as he sat down on Ryler's couch

James sat on the couch are stared, until finally, he stood up,“ Sue I’m going to get some food I’ll be back in bit, take good care of her Ryler…”

"That I will, James. I promise you that."

James nodded and exited the Clinic.

Atarah Zipporah Dorcas--Grayditch outskirts--late morning

The sharp morning sun blazed into Atarah’s eyes as she wandered through the shimmering heat. Dust and sand danced around her, sweat matted hair plastered to the back of her neck and a great tiredness was heaved upon her shoulders.

A small note swirled in the wind then landed in front of her feet. Atarah bent down to pick it up. The dirtied note was hard to read, but she managed to make out the words:

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN OF THE CAPITAL WASTELAND.

I, Colin Moriarty, am pleased to announce that I have recently acquired the abandoned settlement of Grayditch.

There are several exciting opportunities for skilled workers within this new community.

We need builders, masons, plumbers, carpenters and other tradesmen to rebuild the town.

There will also be positions for cooks, farm hands and shopkeepers.

In return for work you will receive food and accommodation, at greatly reduced cost.

If you are interested then please come to see me at my bar in Megaton, or report directly to the welcoming committee in Grayditch.

Grayditch? It was an old settlement, not far from here. She’d thought it was abandoned long ago, but judging by this note. . .

A new life, a new start. . .This was all too wonderful to her, overwhelming almost. Grayditch was not too far off – just in the distance. Atarah buried the note in her pocket, then walked towards the smudge in the horizon, not giving a care for the hot sun beating down.

***

Atarah had finally reached the town. Hubbub came from what appeared to be the diner, a dim light shone through the cracks. The town seemed to be well, up and running.

She felt woozy, AHHHHH, she though, the ground rushed towards her and she was unconscious before she hit the ground.

A building had large words, WELCUMMING CUMMITTIEE right across it. Atarah entered the diner at a brisk pace and gave a smile, oblivious to the clutter. She turned to a young woman with wavy brown hair, “hullo, there,” She pulled out the note and practically shoved it to woman’s face, “I found this and was wondering. . .”


OOC: Sorry. Couldn't resist putting that sentence there

FRIEDA ~~ Pawnee's house/Diner ~~ Mid-morning

“I. . .I,” Pawnee stammered as he pulled away from her, “I need time. Let me think. Please. I’ll reach a decision by tomorrow."

Frieda thought her heart was breaking into a million pieces. He never really did move on. He doesn't even care that he might walk headlong into another trap. She smiled and nodded gently. "Of course. Take all the time you need. Just promise you won't sneak off in the middle of the night, okay?" Frieda leaned down and pat Buck on the head, then went down the stairs and towards his front door. A familiar looking bundle sat on the threshold.

My clothes! But how --

BRANDY.

Frieda snatched up the bundle and rushed into the street, but Brandy was long gone. She went to her shop, where Vict was already hard at work. Frieda gave him a nod in greeting and ducked into the basemant to change. Putting her old clothes back on felt like home, which was reassuring but strange. She shoved the other clothes into her locker and the small sack of gold coins caught her eye for a brief moment. Maybe I'll just give them all back, they're his, anyway.

Frieda picked up her tool bag and locked her locker back up and stepped into the street. She made a detour back to her trashed house once more and systematically removed every light bulb she could find that was still intact. Putting them into a Nuka Cola crate she found in her own basemant -- next to the now decaying Radroach corpses she'd kicked down there the very first night she spent in town -- she left her house for what she hoped was the very last time and went to the diner.

She completely avoided looking towards Zardoz's wagon and marched straight into the diner. Celeste was talking to yet another pair of newcomers, a man with unkempt hair, and a woman who appeared to be about Frieda's age. She waited until there was a break in the conversation, glancing up and around in an attempt to evaluate the extent of the work there needed to be done.

"Good morning, Celeste," she breathed, "I'm going to get working on the lights in here for you." As an afterthought, she asked, "how's your eye?"



CELESTE BROWN ~~ Diner ~~ Mid- to late morning

"David, David O'Riley," he replied with a small grin of his own. "My trade?" David let out a soft chuckle before downing the rest of the coffee. "Well, If you need something killed at over 800 meters then I'm your man. I can teach folk how to shoot a weapon properly, I can scout, I can hunt, I can track down someone for you, but I'm no bounty hunter." He stopped and gave the diner a quick look around. "Though, they wouldn't be much help to your Diner I'm afraid, but to your little town..."

"Hmmmm," Celeste mused aloud. "You know, we could use someone who could secure a steady supply of fresh meat for the diner. I'd give you a cut of all the caps I'd bring in for every meal, too, you won't be disappointed. How does that sound?" He thanked her for the coffee and she refilled his mug with a smile.

A woman about her height, perhaps a little taller, with short wavy brown hair like her own came into the diner. If it weren't for the woman's blue eyes, Celeste would have thought the newcomer were some long lost twin sister of hers. “Hullo, there,” She pulled out the note and practically shoved it to Celeste’s face, “I found this and was wondering. . .”

Celeste jerked her face back from the paper being dangled in front of it, startled by the rude gesture, and took the paper. It was one of the old flyers her dad had sent out through the Wasteland, advertising the town. She absently rubbed beneath her eye patch. Celeste smiled. "Well, what is it you're wondering? You've made it to Grayditch, and welcome to my diner. I'm Celeste. Can I get you a cup of coffee, or something to eat?"

Her eye flicked upward towards more movement at the door. Frieda walked in carrying a bag and a crate filled with lightbulbs and hovered until Celeste had finished speaking. "Good morning, Celeste," she breathed, "I'm going to get working on the lights in here for you. How's your eye?"

"It's okay. I think it's getting better, and I'm finally getting used to this patch." She gestured towards the hanging lights over the tables. "Maybe start over there, that would be great."

Frieda simply nodded and got to work.

I wonder if she knows about Brandy and Pawnee. She flew off the handle when Pawnee barely glanced at Brandy that day, and she seems to be calm, if a little tired. She must not know. ...I hope she doesn't explode if she finds out.

Edit: (OOC: forgot to have my own character acknowledge my other character :facepalm: )

James Wilson – Grayditch arms – late morning (or around that time)

After leaving Ryler’s clinic/ house James walked down the street to his house, looking at diner, a dirty Female had walked inside and was talking to Celeste whilst Frieda was doing something with the Diners lights

I wonder who that is?

Walking inside the Grayditch Arms, James walked down to the basemant, sat on his bed and looked at his (Damaged) Blue Hudson police Combat armour that was hang on wall…

I should of put on the Combat Armour doubt it would I changed much anyway

Taking of his Bloody clothes, James put on some clean blue Jeans and faded bllur Denim shirt and headed back upstairs to the Bathroom and put a bandage on his face, were the Bullet had grazed him…

That’s going to leave a Scar, oh well some girls like Scars...I wonder if Brandy likes scars Hahaha .

After finishing in the Bathroom James walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge, only ten Nuka colas were left inside, along with two small bottles, one Green the other pink

James picked up the smalls bottles and examined them for few minutes trying to renember what Zardoz said each one does.

These are Zardoz potions, he said the pink one removed stress and green one removed Pain I wonder if they work ?

Taking a glass out of cupboard James pour the green potion , the pink potion, Nuka cola and vodka into a small cup and drank the mysterious Purple Potion/drink he had just created….

Well that didn’t do anything; maybe I should give it some time to take effect

Walking back into living room, James noticed a CAR and sniper rifle were on desk but was distracted by a noise coming from outside his shop

I wonder who/what that is ?
--------------------------------------------------------

The Potion

Michael Bright, Grayditch, Diner

Michael walked into the Diner, he had been traveling for a couple of weeks. The last time he had a proper drink was in Canterbury Commons, more importantly he needed a job. He walked over to the counter and took a seat on a stool, he looked around what number of people that were there didn't really pay him much attention.

"Can I have a glass of whiskey" said Michael.

As he waited for his drink he wondered what type of job he could take, he was good with a gun he could become someones guard he could join a local militia with the town had one.
Michael didn't know to much about this part of the wastes, he was pretty familiar with Canterbury Commons, D.C. and Rivet City. He had heard rumors of this area of course, especially about a nearby town named Megaton. Which was a town of people that tried to get into a nearby vault. But Grayditch, Michael didn't know much. But of course the best place to get news was to go to the local diner.

Bob Dobbs

Brandy’s House – Late Morning

"Bob", Brandy said, her voice cracking as she began to get upset, "A little late for that, I've already hurt Frieda, I'm not sure if Pawnee told her not, but she will be very hurt. And me? well I'm starting to get used to it." Brandy took a deep breath and continued. "Bob, you're a really nice guy, and observe a lot too. But, I'm just not ready to talk about Pawnee yet OK? I need to go upstairs for a minute".

Brandy then bolted up the stairs. As she began to climb, she pulled out a Jet inhaler and took a huge hit without even stopping. He heard her go into a room and close the door behind her.

I knew it, she bought more of that [censored] from Zardoz. She’s probably already hooked on it. I may have pushed too hard, but I’m committed now. If I leave here without getting inside her defenses, I’ll lose any chance of ever reaching her…and that [censored] will destroy her.

Bob set the deadbolt on Brandy’s front door, braced himself and then quietly climbed the stairs. At the top, he saw a discarded Jet inhaler in front of a closed door, behind it he could hear Brandy sobbing. Bob picked up the inhaler and gently knocked at the door.

Well, here goes nothing.

“Brandy”, Bob said gently, “May I come in. I want to speak with you.” She did not reply, continuing to sob. He tried the knob, the door was unlocked. Opening the door, he slipped inside and closed it behind him. Brandy was lying on the floor sobbing, using a pile of clothes as a pillow. Bob found it a truly heart-wrenching sight.

Something is eating at her…it’s bigger than her shoulder or even that boy. I have to find out what it is if I want to help her get through this.

Bob sat down on the floor next to her. “I know you’re upset and don’t want to talk right now, so I’ll talk and all you have to do is listen.”

Brandy, still sobbing, glared at him a bit but didn’t say anything. Taking this as a sign that she was willing to listen, Bob continued.

“I’ve only known you for a short time, but it’s plain to me you’re a beautiful and bright young woman and have your whole life ahead of you. The people in this town I’ve talked to seem to think highly of you, but they are concerned, as am I. Something has happened….perhaps you lost something or somebody…and you’re trying to fill the hole in your heart. I cannot tell you where you may find that, but I can tell you where you won’t find it”. Bob then held up the empty Jet inhaler. “It’s not in here. This is pure poison. It’ll steal your dreams, your friends, your money, your health, and in the end leave you with nothing. You deserve better, and I’m not going to stand by and watch this [censored] kill you without trying to help. I know what it’s like to lose people and things I cared about too. It hurt, but I learned to cope with it, and I’ll help you if you let me.”

Brandy had stopped sobbing, and was now quietly watching him and listening. Bob couldn’t tell what she was thinking, but the fact that she hadn’t ordered him out or lashed out at him was encouraging. Bob gently put his hand on her arm and continued.

“I wish you would stop using Jet, if not for me or the others who care about you, at least for yourself. You deserve so much better than to become a slave to that poison. You don’t need potions or chems to get what you want out of life, you have the potential to do that within you already, the chems will just hold you back. If you need more ibuprofen pills, I’ll get them for you. I’ll dispense them to you if that’s what it takes. And if there is a deeper wound than your shoulder, I’ll be here for you when you need me. I’ll do whatever is in my power to do to help you, because I think you’re worth it. What do you say?”

OOC: Sorry this has taken a while guys.

Mirvin. Beside Zardoz's wagon. Morning.

"I do apologize for interupting you and Zardoz's conversation. Are you talking about the SuperDuper Mart? I saw it when I was headin' to town, if not. Could you point me in the right direction?" Mr J.T chuckled as he spoke to Mirvin.

"It is indeed Mr J.T. Miss Brandy and Miss Frieda reactivated me there, they also said that they would return there to retrieve spare parts for me. I am sure that they would assist you in collecting your bottles while they are there."

Mirvin waddled around until he was facing Mr Zardoz once more. "As I was saying Mr Zardoz, there is one thing I would purchase from you if you are able to sell it. I have orders from Mr Frank to find a life of my own. I have looked for one for many years now, but have been unable to locate one. I have asked traders in the past as well as many wastelanders but they have all been little help. Would I be able to purchase a life from you Mr Zardoz?"

Brandy - Her house - late morning


Brandy laid there on the floor sobbing when she heard a gentle knock at her bedroom door.

“Brandy”, Bob said gently, “May I come in. I want to speak with you.”

She didn't say a word, instead she continued to sob. Bob slowly opened the door, quietly shutting it behind him. He sat down on the floor next to her.


“I know you’re upset and don’t want to talk right now, so I’ll talk and all you have to do is listen.”

Brandy, still sobbing, flashed a glare at him but was unable to force any words out of her mouth.

“I’ve only known you for a short time, but it’s plain to me you’re a beautiful and bright young woman and have your whole life ahead of you. The people in this town I’ve talked to seem to think highly of you, but they are concerned, as am I." Bob spoke calmly.


Really? Are my issues that obvious?

Bob continued, "Something has happened….perhaps you lost something or somebody…and you’re trying to fill the hole in your heart. I cannot tell you where you may find that, but I can tell you where you won’t find it”. Bob then held up an empty Jet inhaler. “It’s not in here. This is pure poison. It’ll steal your dreams, your friends, your money, your health, and in the end leave you with nothing. You deserve better, and I’m not going to stand by and watch this [censored] kill you without trying to help. I know what it’s like to lose people and things I cared about too. It hurt, but I learned to cope with it, and I’ll help you if you let me.”


Yeah, I bet you didn't just get left somewhere did you?


Brandy had stopped sobbing, wiping the tears from her eyes. She silently watched and listened. Bob gently put his hand on her arm and continued.

“I wish you would stop using Jet, if not for me or the others who care about you, at least for yourself. You deserve so much better than to become a slave to that poison. You don’t need potions or chems to get what you want out of life, you have the potential to do that within you already, the chems will just hold you back. If you need more ibuprofen pills, I’ll get them for you. I’ll dispense them to you if that’s what it takes. And if there is a deeper wound than your shoulder, I’ll be here for you when you need me. I’ll do whatever is in my power to do to help you, because I think you’re worth it. What do you say?” Bob finished.


Brandy took a deep breath, "if it wasn't for the Jet I found at the SuperDuper Mart after that raider attacked me. I...I never would have made it back here. She really hurt me, and I still feel bad that I killed her. Look" she pulled her hair to the side showing Bob the still healing scars, "she hit me with a pool cue."


Brandy fidgeted for a second, "My brother and his friends left me here, they just left, said I was a pain in the ass, slow and looked at too many things." She brushed a tear away.

She snuggled up to Bob and put her head on his lap.

"I don't know what I was thinking when I bought that potion either, I got excited. But then I thought of how much Frieda had done for me, I was going to give it to her" she sighed, "Pawnee showed up so I dumped it into a glass, it was really an accident that I gave it to him, really it was. I'm a such a klutz, I accidentially knocked the ibuprofin you gave me down the sink, then left the pills Frieda had given me at the diner because I just couldn't face her and ran out of there." She closed her eyes, "I have to tell her, its the right thing to do. On top of all that, I never really talked to Duncan about his brahmin pen either, I'm such a terrible person.... I would just like to lay here for a little bit ok?"

J.T. Taylor - Celeste's diner - late morning



J.T strolled back into the diner and saw a fella he hadn't seen yet and Frieda. He watched her change a light bulb.

"Celeste, Mirvin, the robot" he chuckled, "told me the SuperDuper Mart has quite a few bottles for the milk. Maybe after Duncan is taken care of I could go grab some."

He noticed Frieda remove a light, he casually walked over picking a bulb from her crate.

"Mornin' Frieda" he handed her the bulb, "hand feeling ok?" He couldn't help but smile.

"Celeste, could I get a water if ya have any please?" He then turned to the new fella, "how ya doing? My names J.T"

He twisted the cap off the water and took a long swig.

"So, Frieda, can I lend ya a hand?" He smiled brightly.

Bob Dobbs

Brandy’s House – Late Morning

“I wish you would stop using Jet, if not for me or the others who care about you, at least for yourself.”, said Bob.”You deserve so much better than to become a slave to that poison. You don’t need potions or chems to get what you want out of life, you have the potential to do that within you already, the chems will just hold you back. If you need more ibuprofen pills, I’ll get them for you. I’ll dispense them to you if that’s what it takes. And if there is a deeper wound than your shoulder, I’ll be here for you when you need me. I’ll do whatever is in my power to do to help you, because I think you’re worth it. What do you say?”

Brandy took a deep breath. "If it wasn't for the Jet I found at the SuperDuper Mart after that raider attacked me. I...I never would have made it back here. She really hurt me, and I still feel bad that I killed her. Look" she pulled her hair to the side showing Bob the still healing scars, "she hit me with a pool cue."

Bob winced at the sight of the healing injury. She was forced into killing someone…that isn’t easy to deal with even if they had it coming. Well, the first time at least. But she’s talking now, I’ve won at least some of her trust.

“Chems do have their uses”, said Bob. “Even Jet. But they should only be used in emergencies, like what happened to you at the Super Duper Mart. Used properly, they can give you the edge you need to get through something, but if you use it all the time, before long you’ll need it just to function normally. You were alone, and hurt, and had just been forced to kill someone before they killed you….that alone is a hard thing to bear for a sensitive person…under those circumstances taking Jet was perfectly understandable. But what I hope you see is that Jet doesn’t make any problem go away, it just delays the inevitable moment when you will have to deal with it.”

Brandy fidgeted for a second, "My brother and his friends left me here, they just left, said I was a pain in the ass, slow and looked at too many things." She brushed a tear away.

That’s it right there…her brother abandoning her like that is what is really at the bottom of this. It must have been devastating….poor girl.

“Don’t blame yourself.”, said Bob gently. “Boys…especially your age…. think that they’ll live forever and often don’t understand what is really important in life. It was wrong for him to do that to you, and I can imagine how it must have hurt you, but Jet or whiskey won’t make it better. The thing to do is learn to cope with the pain, and make a life for yourself and hope he will come to his senses one day….and try to forgive him when he finally does understand how he’s wronged you.”

Brandy snuggled up to Bob and put her head on his lap.

"I don't know what I was thinking when I bought that potion either, I got excited. But then I thought of how much Frieda had done for me, I was going to give it to her" she sighed, "Pawnee showed up so I dumped it into a glass, it was really an accident that I gave it to him, really it was. I'm a such a klutz, I accidentially knocked the ibuprofin you gave me down the sink, then left the pills Frieda had given me at the diner because I just couldn't face her and ran out of there."

Accident-prone? It does make sense…if she spilled that potion and got it on her then gave him some that’s only ending one way. Wish she’d told me about the pills…. I’ve got plenty.

“Accidents happen”, said Bob. “If you got some on you and got a good whiff of it, you may well have been under it’s effect too. I hope you see now that potions like that should never be used lightly, they’re the sort of thing two lovers might take together to make a evening particularly memorable. Used incorrectly, they can get you into situations like this. As far as the Ibuprofen, don’t be upset about that, I have more. The next time something like that happens, come tell me, I won’t get mad at you.”

Brandy closed her eyes, then continued. "I have to tell her, its the right thing to do. On top of all that, I never really talked to Duncan about his brahmin pen either, I'm such a terrible person.... I would just like to lay here for a little bit ok?"

“Sure, Sweet Pea”, Bob said as he gently stroked her long, brown hair. “I’ll be here as long as you like.”

Michael Bright, Grayditch, Diner
Michael looked over to the owner of the diner.

"Hey there do you mind telling me where I can get a job?" asked Michael.